Saltwater Pom-Pom Crab aka Boxing Crab (Lybia tesselata)

Lybia tesselata

The Pom Pom Crab aka Boxing Crab is a small crab typically no larger than a quarter. Its body is white and tan with darker areas which provide a camouflage affect.
The crab utilizes a small anemone in both front claws which serve as a form of protection. It also called the boxing crab as it will box with the anemones if attacked since the anemones have the ability to sting. The crab can be seen in the moonlight swaying the anemones side to side collecting food for itself and the anemone. This is a very unique symbiotic relationship.
As with all crabs, meaty foods should be provided regularly.

• also known as Boxing Crab.

• Pom Pom crabs derive their name from the appearance of pom poms held on a pair of their legs.

• The pom poms are actually a pair of anemones from the Genus Bunodeopsis.

• Pom Pom crabs use these stinging anemones as a form of defense.